Want to glide into the heart of Vegas Golden Knights territory? Then you’re at the City National Arena. This isn’t just any ice rink. It’s the team’s practice facility and headquarters.
City National Arena opened on September 18, 2017. It sits in Summerlin South, Nevada, a Las Vegas suburb. Think of it as the cool epicenter of Vegas hockey.
But City National Arena isn’t just for the pros. The UNLV Rebels also call this place home. So do the Las Vegas Thunderbirds, the Vegas Jesters, and the Junior Golden Knights. It is a hub for all levels of hockey.
Before City National Arena, ground broke here on October 5, 2016. This happened shortly after Las Vegas got an NHL expansion franchise. The arena was partly built to boost youth hockey in Southern Nevada.
In July 2017, the Vegas Golden Knights made a deal with City National Bank. That is how the arena got its name. County commissioner Steve Sisolak even declared the opening day “City National Arena Day.”
Murray Craven, a former NHL player, designed the facility. He included the best features from other practice arenas. The 146,000-square-foot building has two rinks. Each rink seats 600 people.
Inside City National Arena, you will find team locker rooms for both the Golden Knights and UNLV. There are also sports medicine facilities and an equipment room. A video room, player lounge, and coaches’ offices provide all the necessities. You can grab a bite at the restaurant and bar. Or check out the team store.
The Golden Knights practice on the Summerlin Hospital Rink. UNLV also plays here. The other rink is called the Ghost Energy Rink.
The Eco Chill system keeps the ice in top condition. It also helps save energy. The arena uses waste heat for underfloor heating. They even use it to melt snow. According to Jeremy Brant, the Director of Operations, the operational savings are significant. He estimates savings of 20 to 30 percent per month compared to other systems.
The City National Arena is more than just a building. It is a place where dreams meet the ice. A place where the future of Vegas hockey is being shaped.